At Swasti Yoga Center, we believe yoga is not just a practice but a lifestyle—a holistic journey that opens the heart, sharpens the intellect, and elevates the soul. For Mercedes, a passionate yoga and Ayurveda student from Chile, her time at Swasti was not just about asanas and anatomy—it was about immersing herself in the deep spiritual and cultural roots of India. One of the most transformative experiences she had during her stay was visiting the Abhay Prabhavna Jain Museum—a visit that shifted her understanding of ethical living, inner harmony, and spiritual depth.
A Cultural and Spiritual Immersion Beyond Expectations
Organized as part of Swasti Yoga Center’s experiential learning tours, the visit to the Abhay Prabhavna Museum, dedicated to the rich heritage of Jainism, proved to be a profound eye-opener. Nestled in a serene part of Pune, the museum offers an immersive look into the core principles, lifestyle, and ancient wisdom of Jain dharma. For Mercedes, who came to India seeking deeper meaning in her yoga practice, this was an unexpected but deeply enriching encounter.
“I came to India thinking I would deepen my understanding of yoga postures, philosophy, and Ayurveda,” said Mercedes. “But this visit to the Jain museum opened up a whole new world of values and perspectives that I had never encountered before.”
Ahimsa: The Practice of Nonviolence in Action
One of the first and most striking principles Mercedes encountered was Ahimsa—nonviolence in thought, word, and action. Though Ahimsa is central to both Jainism and yoga, the Jain interpretation takes it to an extraordinary depth. It’s not just about avoiding harm to humans but extends to the smallest of living beings, promoting an ethos of compassion and respect for all life forms.
“I was amazed to see how seriously Jains take the practice of nonviolence,” Mercedes shared. “Even in their diet, daily routines, and interactions, the idea of not causing harm is central. It made me reflect on how I live and how I can incorporate this awareness in my own yoga teaching.”
Aparigraha and the Art of Letting Go
Another powerful concept Mercedes encountered was Aparigraha—non-possessiveness. As a global traveler and spiritual seeker, she resonated deeply with this idea. Jainism teaches that attachment to material possessions and even rigid opinions can hinder inner peace. This echoed the yogic Yamas and reminded Mercedes of the value of simplicity and inner contentment.
“Learning about Aparigraha helped me realize how often we cling to things, relationships, or even identities,” she reflected. “Letting go is not about losing; it’s about finding space for growth.”
Tirthankaras and the Path of Liberation
The museum’s beautifully curated exhibits on the 24 Tirthankaras—the enlightened teachers of Jainism—provided a glimpse into the lives of these great spiritual masters. Each Tirthankara’s story is a beacon of discipline, renunciation, and unwavering compassion.
“I felt deeply inspired learning about the Tirthankaras. Their commitment to truth, self-realization, and service to others is something I aspire to in my own spiritual journey,” said Mercedes.
Anekantavada: Embracing Multiple Truths
One of the most intellectually stimulating concepts Mercedes encountered was Anekantavada, the doctrine of manifold viewpoints. It teaches that reality is complex, and no single viewpoint can claim absolute truth. This concept resonated strongly with her as a yoga teacher-in-training, reminding her to remain open-minded, humble, and respectful of differing paths.
“In today’s polarized world, Anekantavada is such a relevant teaching. It encourages dialogue, empathy, and peaceful coexistence,” she noted. “It also aligns beautifully with yoga’s idea of unity in diversity.”
Santhara and the Philosophy of a Conscious Death
Perhaps the most profound moment came when Mercedes learned about Santhara—the Jain vow of voluntary, peaceful fasting unto death, practiced by advanced spiritual seekers. This concept, though delicate and complex, revealed to her the Jain emphasis on detachment, discipline, and conscious living until the very end.
“It’s not about death but about the dignity of life,” she explained. “It made me think about how to live with more awareness, more gratitude, and less fear.”
A Must-Visit for Every Yoga Seeker in India
Mercedes wholeheartedly recommends the Abhay Prabhavna Museum to anyone coming to India to study yoga or Ayurveda. The museum doesn’t just teach Jainism; it inspires deeper reflection on our own spiritual values and how we live our everyday lives.
“If you are doing your teacher training at Swasti Yoga Center, do not miss this visit,” she says. “It will enrich your understanding of yoga beyond the mat, and help you connect with India’s profound spiritual wisdom. It truly changed me.”
Swasti Yoga Center: More Than a School—A Spiritual Journey
At Swasti Yoga Center, we are committed to offering not just certified yoga courses but transformative life experiences. Mercedes’ story is one among many that showcase how learning yoga in India is not just about certificates—it’s about personal growth, cultural immersion, and spiritual awakening.
As she returns to Chile, Mercedes carries with her more than knowledge—she carries a living philosophy shaped by the timeless teachings of yoga, Ayurveda, and Jainism.
Join us at Swasti Yoga Center and begin your journey—not just to become a certified yoga professional, but a conscious global citizen.
